Milan director Barbara Berlusconi has conceded that the days of buying ready-made champions are in the past.
The Diavolo were once a powerhouse on the transfer market, aided by the funds of President Silvio Berlusconi – Barbara’s father.
Milan director Barbara Berlusconi has conceded that the days of buying ready-made champions are in the past.
The Diavolo were once a powerhouse on the transfer market, aided by the funds of President Silvio Berlusconi – Barbara’s father.
But, speaking with L’Equipe, Barbara underlined that the current economical climate means that the Rossoneri will have to adjust.
“The idea to cut costs is the only road to take,” she stated. “Football doesn’t like change, but there are times when decisions need to be made.
“That’s not to say that we can’t buy champions, but our ideas are different. We want our youngsters to grow and we want to construct a side around them.”
Milan have already put that into practice after selling Zlatan Ibrahimovic to Paris Saint-Germain, thus allowing Stephan El Shaarawy to flourish.
“Let’s say that we seized a good opportunity with this offer from PSG which was too good to refuse,” she added.
“To lose a player of great quality is always disagreeable, but that's the way things are. One champion goes and we make another…
“When I talk about a home-made champion, it doesn't only mean he comes from our youth academy. El Shaarawy doesn't.
“But we bought him when he was quite young and we've helped him mature. We have the experience to allow his talent to blossom.”
She also insisted that Milan are not envious of PSG – a club who are now one of the richest in the world game.
“We don't envy anyone. We're the club with the most titles of any in the world. Today, I only have admiration for clubs like Bayern Munich who have put in place a healthy economic system.”